Ben's Fight Inc, Kennebunk, ME 04043, US

HistoryAikido is a traditional Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba (O-Sensei) in the early 20th century. As the physical practice of philosophical principles developed by O-Sensei, Aikido strives for the ultimate goal of peaceful resolution rather than defeat. Composed of three Japanese characters: Ai, meaning harmony; Ki, spirit or energy; and Do, the path or the way, the word Aikido thus signifies the 'Way of Unifying Life Energy'. In this regard, O-Sensei created a martial art in which the preservation of one's attacker is equally important as one's own self defense. Aikido is more than the study of physical techniques; proper etiquette, attitude and behavior are also stressed. The basic movements of Aikido are circular in nature. The Aikidoist trains to harmonize with, rather than confront an aggressive line of force and converts it into a circular motion that renders attackers helpless. Portland Aikido is a member of the United States Aikido Federation.